Norfolk Navy Shipyard introducing exoskeletons for workers

Dec. 7 (UPI) -- The Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Virginia is introducing exoskeletons for heavy manual work designed to prevent injuries and fatigue, according to the Navy.

The Robotics Subcommittee has been investigating technologies that will assist shipyard employees. The Levitate AIRFRAME is a flexible mechanical back-mounted unit that helps stabilize core muscle and reduces physical energy expended by up to 80 percent, according to Levitate.

The U.S. military and support personnel have invested millions of dollars in robotic technology that can prevent or alleviate chronic injuries from heavy labor.

"We do lead shielding and a lot of heavy plate lifting," shipyard Nuclear Director William Stubbs said in a statement

"It's a lot of strain on my team, so if there's anything available that can help protect my folks, I want to use it. If it's going to help my people be safe and help them better perform the job, then it's worth looking into."

"You can feel the suit take away the strain from the simplest tasks like lowering and lifting," Stubbs said.